Israel advances with war plan, considering possible Gaza agreement
The volatile situation in Gaza continues to escalate, with the shattering of a ceasefire deal and the resumption of intense hostilities. Israel's military leadership is facing increasing international criticism for its actions in the Gaza war, which has reportedly resulted in the death of over 62,000 Palestinians, including many women and children, according to the Hamas-controlled health authority.
The Israeli government is currently reviewing a new ceasefire proposal, but it is considered unlikely to react positively as it does not include the release of all hostages. The breakdown of the previous ceasefire in March 2025 followed Israel's surprise airstrikes in response to Hamas refusing to release hostages and rejecting an extension of the ceasefire.
In the wake of this, Israel has approved plans for a full military takeover of Gaza, starting with control of Gaza City. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed concern, warning that this military takeover could cause massive displacement, more killings, and suffering. Humanitarian aid to Gaza is urgently needed, but the situation remains uncertain.
The Israeli Security Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Thursday to discuss a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The latest ceasefire proposal is an updated version of the one by US special envoy Steve Witkoff, calling for a 60-day ceasefire during which ten hostages will be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. There are still 50 hostages in Gaza, with at least 20 believed to be alive.
Hamas has agreed to the first option, primarily due to pressure from Egypt and Qatar to prevent Israel's planned takeover of the Gaza city. Arab mediators have presented Hamas with two options: accept a temporary ceasefire or agree to a comprehensive deal that involves releasing all hostages and ending the war by relinquishing power and weapons.
Meanwhile, the Israeli government is discussing controversial settlement construction plans in the West Bank's E1 area, which could make a contiguous territory for a future Palestinian state more difficult.
These developments raise serious humanitarian and political concerns about the viability of a future Palestinian state in Gaza. The continuation of conflict and military measures complicate the future possibility of an independent Palestinian state, as full military control by Israel could restrict Palestinian governance and autonomy.
Michael Milshtein, a former head of the Palestinian affairs department in Israel's military intelligence, stated that "the ball is now in Israel's court." The situation remains complex and uncertain, with the prospect of a negotiated peaceful resolution and a two-state solution appearing increasingly distant.
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